9 Ways to Turn the Windows Volume Up or Down

Are you looking to increase or decrease the volume on your laptop, desktop computer, or tablet running Windows 10 or Windows 11? This guide outlines essential methods to control the sound volume efficiently using various built-in features offered by Microsoft. From keyboard shortcuts to the Volume Mixer, we’ve got you covered!

Contents

1. 1. Use the keyboard volume control on your PC or laptop
2. 2. Use the system tray volume control
3. 3. Use the volume control on your speakers
4. 4. Use the new Windows 11 Volume Mixer
5. 5. Use the classic Volume Mixer
6. 6. Create or download a Volume or Volume Mixer shortcut
7. 7. Adjust the volume from the Settings app
8. 8. Use the volume buttons on your tablet
9. 9. Use the volume controls on your monitor
10. Which method do you prefer?

1. Use the Keyboard Volume Control on Your PC or Laptop

If you are looking for a keyboard shortcut for volume, Windows laptops often have multimedia keys available. You may need to hold the Fn key while pressing the designated function key (F1-F12) with a speaker icon. For example:

Ensure to check your laptop’s keyboard layout for specific multimedia key arrangements. Desktop keyboards may also feature dedicated multimedia controls, providing similar functions.

2. Use the System Tray Volume Control

The system tray (or Notification area) in both Windows 10 and 11 includes a speaker icon, which opens the volume slider when clicked. On Windows 11, clicking on the speaker icon launches the Quick Settings.

Simply drag the slider or click on it to adjust volume levels.

3. Use the Volume Control on Your Speakers

If you are utilizing external speakers, adjust the volume directly using the speaker volume control buttons. Here is an example:

4. Use the New Windows 11 Volume Mixer

Windows 11 features an updated Volume Mixer, accessible through Settings > System > Sound. This mixer provides versatile control of app-specific audio settings:

5. Use the Classic Volume Mixer

The classic Volume Mixer can be accessed by right-clicking the speaker icon in the system tray and selecting Open Volume Mixer in both Windows 10 and 11:

6. Create or Download a Volume Control Shortcut

You can create desktop shortcuts for quick access to the Volume and Volume Mixer. Find instructions on how to do this here.

7. Adjust the Volume from the Settings App

In Windows 11, open the Settings app, navigate to Sound, and adjust the volume using the slider:

In Windows 10, access the Settings by navigating to Ease of Access, then use the volume slider under Make your device easier to hear:

8. Use the Volume Buttons on Your Tablet

If you're using a Windows tablet, such as the Surface Pro, find physical buttons on the device's edges to easily control the volume:

9. Use the Volume Controls on Your Monitor

Some monitors have built-in volume controls, especially those with integrated speakers or external audio connections. Use the Menu button to access volume settings:

Which Method Do You Prefer?

Try all the methods provided in this guide and determine which volume control technique suits you best. Share your preferences in the comments below! Whether it’s using the keyboard, system tray, or Volume Mixer, we’d love to hear your thoughts!